Fall brings crisp air, colorful leaves, and the perfect excuse to get creative as a family. It’s also an ideal season to spark curiosity through hands-on STEAM projects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math). With just a few supplies, you can transform everyday autumn treasures into engaging activities that build critical skills while making lasting memories.

Here are five fun fall STEAM projects your family will love, complete with step-by-step instructions, supply lists, and the skills your kids will unlock.

 

1. Leaf Chromatography Experiment

Explore the hidden colors in leaves while introducing kids to the basics of chemistry and biology. This activity gives children a firsthand look at chlorophyll and the pigments that make leaves change color in the fall. By waiting and watching the colors separate, they learn observation and data-collection skills, practice patience, and fuel their natural curiosity about how the world works.

Supplies Needed:

• Fresh green leaves (spinach, grass, or fall leaves that are still slightly green)
• Rubbing alcohol
• Glass jars or cups
• Coffee filters or paper towels
• Small bowls and spoons
• Tape
  
  

How-To:

1. Tear the leaves into small pieces and place them in a jar.
2. Mash the leaves with the back of a spoon.
3. Pour rubbing alcohol just enough to cover the leaves.
4. Stir, then cover the jar with plastic wrap and set it in a warm spot for about 30 minutes.
5. Cut strips of coffee filter. Dip one end into the alcohol-leaf mixture, then tape the other end to the side of the jar.
6. Watch as the pigments travel up the strip, separating into beautiful bands of green, yellow, and orange.
   
   

STEAM Skills Unlocked: Scientific inquiry, chemistry, biology, and visual analysis

 

2. Pumpkin Catapults

Launch mini pumpkins and watch physics in action! Building and testing a catapult introduces children to concepts like force, trajectory, and tension, all in a hands-on and playful way. Kids will also practice problem-solving as they adjust their designs, while enjoying a little friendly competition that makes learning exciting.

Supplies Needed:

• Mini pumpkins
• Popsicle sticks
• Rubber bands
• Plastic spoons
• Tape or glue
• A box or bucket target
  
  

How-To:

1. Stack 7 popsicle sticks and secure both ends with rubber bands.
2. Place 1 popsicle stick perpendicular under the stack and secure with rubber bands—this becomes the lever arm.
3. Attach a spoon to the end of the lever stick.
4. Place the mini pumpkin in the spoon, press down, and launch!
5. Set up targets and test how far your pumpkins can fly.
   
   

STEAM Skills Unlocked: Engineering design, physics, problem-solving, and math (measuring distance)

 

3. Apple Tower Challenge

Turn apples into building blocks while exploring balance and structure. This activity helps kids develop spatial reasoning, teamwork, and creative thinking as they design and test their towers. Measuring the results adds a practical math connection and keeps the learning playful.

Supplies Needed:

• Apples of various sizes
• Toothpicks
• A ruler or measuring tape
  
  

How-To:

1. Slice some apples in half to create flat bases.
2. Use toothpicks to connect apples together.
3. Challenge kids to build the tallest or most creative apple structure possible.
4. Measure and compare tower heights.
   
   

STEAM Skills Unlocked: Engineering design, math (measurement), creativity, and fine motor skills

 

4. Leaf Symmetry Art

Combine nature and art to explore symmetry and patterns. By painting and pressing leaves, kids begin to see the connection between math and creativity. The process strengthens fine motor skills while giving children the freedom to express themselves artistically, resulting in colorful, one-of-a-kind designs.

Supplies Needed:

• Colorful fall leaves
• White paper
• Washable paint
• Paintbrushes
  
  

How-To:

1. Fold a piece of paper in half.
2. Paint one side of a leaf with bright paint.
3. Press the leaf onto one side of the folded paper.
4. Fold the paper shut, press gently, then open to reveal a symmetrical print.
   
   

STEAM Skills Unlocked: Math (geometry), art, observation, and pattern recognition

 

5. Pinecone Weather Predictors

Discover how nature can teach kids about weather and adaptation. Observing pinecones open and close depending on moisture levels encourages children to connect natural science to real-life experiences. Recording and comparing observations develops habits of data collection and prediction while sparking curiosity about the environment.

Supplies Needed:

• Dry pinecones
• Notebook and pencil for recording observations
  
  

How-To:

1. Collect pinecones and place them somewhere visible outdoors.
2. Observe: when it’s dry, pinecones open. When it’s damp or about to rain, they close up.
3. Record daily weather alongside pinecone observations.
4. Compare your findings to local weather reports.
   
   

STEAM Skills Unlocked: Environmental science, data collection, prediction, and critical thinking

 

Wrapping It Up

These five fall STEAM activities are more than just fun. They spark curiosity, nurture creativity, and strengthen kids’ problem-solving skills! Whether you’re launching mini pumpkins across the yard or uncovering the secret colors inside leaves, your family will explore the natural wonders of autumn while building a love of learning.

So grab some supplies, head outside, and let the fall STEAM adventures begin!